About Chicago
Chicago is a beautiful city located on the shores of Lake Michigan. It is well known for its skyline, which features some of the tallest buildings in the world, as well as its museums, art galleries, and theaters. The town enjoys four distinct seasons and warm temperatures during summertime. It was founded by a French explorer, Jean Baptiste Point du Sable, and has seen great success as an industrial hub, becoming an influential city for culture, commerce, finance, technology, telecommunications, and transportation.
But it doesn't stop there! Chicago also boasts of its colorful nightlife, with numerous party venues such as nightclubs and event spaces located throughout its downtown area and beyond. There are almost a thousand clubs scattered across the city, offering everything from local jazz venues to mega dance clubs attracting top DJs from around the globe. Whether an intimate soiree or a wild night out clubbing, there’s something for everyone in the Windy City when it comes to getting down on a Saturday night.
Hosting summer parties in Chicago is a fantastic idea because it offers something for everyone. Aside from its clubs and bars, the city is also home to many beachfront venues along Lake Michigan where you can relax with friends or family and take in breathtaking views of the skyline. The summer weather in the city is also warm, making for a pleasant atmosphere for getting together with loved ones.
Summer Party Options in Chicago
- DJs
Professional DJs are the lifeblood of any summer party, providing guests with a selection of danceable music that is sure to set the right mood. Most masters are adept at reading the room and catering their playlists to the crowd’s needs. They can also provide sound equipment, including speakers, amplifiers, and microphones. The musicians often bring their turntables and vinyl discs, as well as digital music libraries from which they can draw tunes.
- Bartenders
Bartenders play an integral role in any summer bash by providing delicious libations for guests to enjoy throughout the night. Some bartenders specialize in crafting signature drinks tailored to each event's theme while others provide classic cocktails like margaritas or mojitos that go down easily on hot days. They will come prepared with all the necessary tools such as shakers, strainers, and jiggers needed for making drinks quickly so that no one has to wait too long for a refreshment!
- Balloon Vendors
Balloons can add color and whimsy to any outdoor summer party and make it more festive. If you have a specific vision for your event, the vendors will gladly collaborate with you ahead of time and take all measures to ensure that everything looks perfect when it's time for the celebration—from color palettes to arrangements. Balloon artists typically have an array of helium-filled latex balloons in solid colors or prints as well as foil balloons shaped into letters spelling out messages like ‘Happy Birthday’ or even customized designs featuring an event's logo or mascot.
Summer Party Vendors in Chicago
- Knight Sounds Entertainment
Bridget started her DJ/karaoke business with one goal: to keep the dance floor packed! Her lifelong love of music and singing led her naturally into the DJ business. She quickly developed a reputation for being able to read a crowd and play the perfect song to get them moving. Bridget takes the time to meet with all her wedding clients personally so she can get an understanding of their musical tastes and what they want for their big day. She offers a variety of services, from music to lighting to logistics.
- Cinnaholic
Cinnaholic is a bakery that offers up an extraordinary experience you won't find anywhere else. The star of the show, their gourmet cinnamon rolls, come with a plethora of options when it comes to frostings and toppings—leaving you with over 40 possible flavor combinations! On top of that, they also serve delicious vegan-friendly baked goods like brownies, cookies, and cookie dough made with only the best ingredients. But their services don't end there—Cinnaholic also provides catering for any size occasion imaginable.
- Paris312
From exquisite balloon bouquets and floral arrangements to delightfully crafted garlands and thoughtful party favors, Paris312 has everything required to make any gathering one to cherish for years. Whether you’re throwing a baby shower to commemorate a new arrival, celebrating someone’s birthday with friends and family or just having a casual get-together, their team will ensure that the event goes off without a hitch. The business delivers its products all over Chicago and its surrounding suburbs.
Pros and Cons of Summer Parties in Chicago
Many amazing things come with throwing summer parties in Chicago. However, there are also some potential drawbacks that you should be aware of before you start planning:
Advantages
- The city has many parks and open spaces to host summer parties, allowing for outdoor activities such as volleyball and other lawn games, picnics, and barbecues.
- The music scene in Chicago is vibrant and varied, offering a variety of genres to suit every taste.
- Chicago summers are known for their mild temperatures and low humidity levels, ideal conditions for any outdoor gathering.
Disadvantages
- Public transportation is not always reliable in terms of timing or accessibility which could cause delays when trying to attend an event or return home afterward.
- The city is prone to extreme weather conditions such as severe thunderstorms or extremely hot days that could cause discomfort or even dangerous situations if not prepared for them ahead of time.
- Intense traffic congestion during rush hour can lead to long commute times when traveling around the city by car or public transport.
Tips on How to Organize Summer Parties in Chicago
Summer is the perfect time to get friends and family together for a party. However, hosting a successful event can take some planning. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
- Schedule your party strategically: Choose a date and time that will work for most of your guests. If possible, avoid scheduling your party during peak heat times or on holidays when people may already have plans.
- Inform your guests early: Create a guest list and send out invitations early. This will give people the opportunity to RSVP and make sure they save the date.
- Plan your menu: Make sure you have enough food and drinks to go around, and account for dietary restrictions if there are any. If you're serving alcohol, be sure to have non-alcoholic options as well.
- Prepare as much as you can in advance: This is to avoid feeling overwhelmed on the day of the party. Set up furniture, decorate, and make any food that can be made beforehand.
- Don’t hesitate to ask for assistance: Enlist the help of friends or family members to pitch in with set-up, clean-up, or serving food and drinks. This will help you enjoy the party more yourself!
With a little planning, you can host a fun and successful summer party that everyone will enjoy!
Famous Locations in Chicago
- Marquette Park
Marquette Park is a 315-acre park ideal for a peaceful escape from the city. Meander through the lush foliage of the rose garden, take in the sweet aroma of blooming flowers and observe nature’s wonders as you take a relaxing stroll alongside its tranquil lagoon. If you’re feeling more active, there are plenty of recreational activities awaiting you including tennis, basketball, and fishing. Whatever activity you choose to pursue, it's sure to be an enjoyable experience for any outdoor enthusiast!
- Rainbow Beach Park
Rainbow Beach is a wonderful spot to bask in the sun and take advantage of the cool waters of Lake Michigan. The beach features many recreational activities, from state-of-the-art gymnasiums and multipurpose rooms, to handball courts and even one of Chicago's oldest community gardens. Located on the northern edge of this magnificent beach is the Rainbow Beach Dunes—a natural habitat managed by the Chicago Park District, home to various plants and wildlife native to the shores of Lake Michigan. People can also relish a day out fishing here, as there’s an abundance of freshwater fish swimming in these waters, ranging from snapper to pearl perch.
- Montrose Beach
This stunning sandy beach is an ideal destination for a fun-filled summer day. With its vast length, it's perfect for leisurely strolling or kicking back and enjoying a picnic in the sun. Kiteboarding is also popular here, as the vast shoreline provides plenty of room to practice. In addition, the beach serves as an important stopover point for migratory birds on their journey during spring and fall. Those who visit should keep an eye out for feathered visitors passing through while they enjoy the peaceful serenity of the area and make sure to secure any food they bring with them so that they don't attract these guests.